Australian Jack Bird strengthened the club’s squad for the 2026 Betfred Super League season as he arrived from NRL side Wests Tigers.

Bird, a versatile player capable of playing across the centres and halves as well as the back row, brings significant NRL experience to AMT Headingley having made 179 NRL appearances and played for New South Wales in five State of Origin games. His arrival follows the unfortunate season-ending knee injury sustained by Max Simpson, which has provided the Rhinos with the opportunity to bolster their playing group for the year ahead.

Born in Wollongong, Bird emerged through the St George Illawarra junior system before making his NRL debut in 2015 for Cronulla, being named Dally M Rookie of the Year in his first season. He rose to prominence with the Sharks, playing a key role in their 2016 NRL Premiership triumph. Bird later joined the Brisbane Broncos, before moving to St George Illawarra in 2021. After four seasons with the Dragons he moved to Wests Tigers last season, making 17 appearances.